Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in London, where he is expected to discuss the situation in Syria with British Prime Minister David Cameron.

Putin's press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, told journalists on August 1 that the Russian leader, who traveled to London for the first time in nine years, will reiterate Russia's position on the Syrian conflict -- waiting "for one more possibility to continue dialogue."

He said Putin and Cameron also would "exchange views on bilateral relations" -- including prospects for developing trade, economic and energy cooperation and investment opportunities.

In related news, a group of British musicians, including Pete Townshend and the members of the pop group Pet Shop Boys, have used Putin's visit to London to urge that he ensures a fair trial for punk collective Pussy Riot.

In a letter published in "The Times" newspaper, 12 musicians called the charges against three female members of Pussy Riot "preposterous."